12756 Olive Blvd Suite 12766, Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Supporting Your Senior Pet's Health and Comfort
As pets age, their health needs change. Just like us, older pets can experience a variety of health concerns, such as arthritis, dental disease, heart conditions, and vision loss. At Fox Creek Veterinary Hospital, we are committed to providing the highest level of care for your senior pet. We focus on ensuring their comfort, mobility, and quality of life through tailored care plans designed to meet their unique needs.
Comprehensive Geriatric Wellness Exams
As your pet gets older, annual checkups become even more important. During geriatric wellness exams, our veterinarians will conduct a thorough physical exam to assess your pet’s overall health. We’ll look for signs of aging and any conditions that could affect your pet’s well-being. These exams also allow us to monitor the progression of existing conditions and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
What’s included in a geriatric exam:
- Physical Exam: A comprehensive review of your pet’s body condition, skin, coat, eyes, ears, and dental health.
- Bloodwork: Routine blood tests to monitor organ function and detect early signs of diseases such as kidney, liver, or thyroid conditions.
- Urinalysis: Helps to identify issues like kidney disease or urinary tract infections.
- Weight and Mobility Check: We assess whether your pet has gained or lost weight, and check for signs of arthritis or mobility issues.
- Behavioral Review: We’ll discuss any changes you’ve noticed in your pet’s behavior, such as increased sleeping, lethargy, or difficulty moving.
Managing Common Senior Health Issues
Older pets experience a range of health problems, but many of them can be managed or even prevented with proper care. At Fox Creek Veterinary Hospital, we focus on treating and managing common conditions that affect senior pets.
- Arthritis and Joint Pain: Common in older pets, leading to stiffness, limping, and discomfort. We offer joint supplements, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy to keep your pet mobile and pain-free.
- Dental Health: Dental disease can cause gum inflammation, tooth loss, and infections. We provide dental exams, cleanings, and treatments to maintain your pet's oral health.
- Heart Disease: Like people, pets can develop heart conditions as they age. We monitor heart health with blood pressure checks and screenings, and offer medications or lifestyle changes to manage heart disease.
- Vision and Hearing Loss: Many senior pets experience declines in vision or hearing. We assess their sight and hearing and offer advice on making their environment more comfortable and safe.
Why Geriatric Care is Important
Pets are living longer than ever thanks to advances in veterinary medicine and nutrition. With this longevity, it’s essential to provide the appropriate care to manage age-related health issues. Regular checkups, early detection, and proactive treatment are key to keeping your pet comfortable and healthy as they enter their senior years.